Submitted last year, the application called for the construction of a five-storey student accommodation scheme comprising of 65 student beds, situated to the rear of St Peters House.

A report submitted by developers as part of the application process had argued the benefits achieved from the development of the site outweighed the loss of green space. In addition, it was suggested the increased pedestrian footfall would improve trade for existing shops, restaurants and bars.

Despite the arguments, planning officers recommended the application was refused on the grounds it would have a significant and irreversible impact on the character and setting of a number of heritage assets, as well as the loss of protected trees.

Subsequently Derby Council planning agreed, suggesting the student accommodation block was an "unacceptable form of development".

The council backed the planning officer's recommendation for refusal and rejected the plans on the basis it would negatively impact heritage assets along with the conservation area and street scene.